NJ Transit free fares week: When does it start?

NEW JERSEY (PIX11) – The time has come – NJ Transit’s free fare week is starting soon.

NJ Transit is waiving fares for a week following severe disruptions of train service over the summer, Gov. Phil Murphy announced last week.

But when does it start?

All NJ Transit bus, train and light rail rides are free starting on Aug. 26 and running through Sept. 2. You can also get 25% off your September monthly pass if you bought a monthly pass for August in the mobile app, at ticket vending machines or windows.

NJ Transit train fares increased by 15% on July 1. A dip in ridership and the COVID pandemic left the agency with a $2 billion deficit, according to officials.

Prior to the fare hike, NJ Transit’s on-time performance for June was 69%, according to Murphy. NJ Transit normally has an on-time performance at or above 80%.

Murphy blamed Amtrak infrastructure for the delays and cancellations that left New Jersey residents stranded during their commutes.

“As we work diligently with Amtrak to investigate and address the issues that have occurred this summer, especially on the Northeast Corridor, we hope this fare holiday offers our commuters some relief,” Murphy said in a statement.

NJ Transit is also offering student discounts for passes. For more information, click here.